Years ago, when I was a criminology student, I spent many hours writing about criminal behaviour for term papers. By the time I received my diploma from Douglas College, I realized that I'd rather write crime fiction than work for the Criminal Justice System, a decision I've never regretted.
While learning the craft of writing through courses, conferences, workshops, books, and critique groups, I worked as a secretary for accountants, academics, lawyers, and others. When I left full time employment to raise my children, I used pockets of free time to develop short fiction while I kept working on mystery novels. A number of my parenting experiences found their way into stories, essays, and anecdotes.
I also began writing my Alex Bellamy mysteries, TAXED TO DEATH and FATAL ENCRYPTION. Taxed to Death is no longer in print, but Fatal Encryption is still available. With its Port Moody settings, the book has a special place in my heart. It was published back in 2008 before the SkyTrain came in and development started changing things, so I'm glad I captured the city as it was back then.
When my children were older, I returned to a paying job and worked in retail for five years. From there, I ventured into security work, where I trained as a patrol and communications officer. This experience proved to be invaluable research for my Casey Holland mysteries. I'm now retired from day jobs and devoting my time to writing, blogging, book reviewing, and my granddaughters, Ellie and Abby.
While learning the craft of writing through courses, conferences, workshops, books, and critique groups, I worked as a secretary for accountants, academics, lawyers, and others. When I left full time employment to raise my children, I used pockets of free time to develop short fiction while I kept working on mystery novels. A number of my parenting experiences found their way into stories, essays, and anecdotes.
I also began writing my Alex Bellamy mysteries, TAXED TO DEATH and FATAL ENCRYPTION. Taxed to Death is no longer in print, but Fatal Encryption is still available. With its Port Moody settings, the book has a special place in my heart. It was published back in 2008 before the SkyTrain came in and development started changing things, so I'm glad I captured the city as it was back then.
When my children were older, I returned to a paying job and worked in retail for five years. From there, I ventured into security work, where I trained as a patrol and communications officer. This experience proved to be invaluable research for my Casey Holland mysteries. I'm now retired from day jobs and devoting my time to writing, blogging, book reviewing, and my granddaughters, Ellie and Abby.